im stunned this version of outrun doesn't get more recognition. it's really pretty excellent, existing as an unabridged remake of outrun in the sega ages budget line for the PS2...but it's more akin to a sequel. the original arcade mode, whether you prefer to play a jpn cabinet or 'overseas', can still be accessed, of course, and there have been a few minor tweaks so as to maximize outrun's tranquil and contemplative atmosphere - checkpoints grant just a few more seconds of bonus time, crashes send you hurtling forward with increased momentum, switching gears is a bit more trouble-free. time and difficulty can also be tweaked as well, so this is really outrun as the ultimate carefree experience. but this iteration also throws in a time attack mode and an 'arrange' mode with three newly implemented remixes of outruns triumvirate of songs that sees you take on a diamond shaped route as opposed to a pyramid. while it always ends in the same way, there are more sights to see and routes to take that make full use of the PS2's capabilities, and sega made the smart decision of re-implementing rivals from turbo outrun. they won't steal your girlfriend this time but they're legitimately challenging foes that offer a bit more nuance to route selection and scoring, especially if one's aim is to take down all seven rivals. in the scenario that you've let the rivals slip, if you want to surpass them you'll have no choice but to follow them through branching paths which often means you wont find yourself taking the same few paths time and time again...it becomes outrun configured as close to pure instinct.

it's probably actually deserving of a 5/5, but ill sit on it for a while; it's obviously not quite as visually appealing and how you feel about your vehicle's size and distance from the camera in relation to the original might vary from one playthrough to the next. still, this is a complete and total iteration of an arcade classic, retaining that 80's spark of adventure and mastery over play-induced zen.